Having a pet comes with the occasional accident. And while cleaning it up might seem straightforward, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, you may still notice a lingering smell even after cleaning, or your pet keeps marking the same spot. While it can be frustrating, there are a few steps you can try to remove the odour and help prevent your pet from peeing in the same place again.
Why does my pet keep peeing in the same spot?
For both cats and dogs, their primary sense is smell, their world revolves around scents. Pet urine contains pheromones, which are chemical signals animals use to communicate and mark territory. Even if you can’t smell anything, your pet likely still can. These pheromones can linger on floors, carpets, or furniture, even after regular cleaning. So while things might seem clean to us, your pet will still smell it.
To properly get rid of these pheromones, it’s best to use a urine enzyme cleaner. These cleaners break down the organic compounds in urine, including the proteins and enzymes that carry scent signals. Unlike regular cleaners that may just mask the smell or remove surface stains, enzyme cleaners actually break the molecules apart. Once the urine is fully broken down and cleaned up, pets are much less likely to return to the same spot.
So, what’s the best way to clean up a pee accident and prevent repeat marking?
Dealing with a pet pee accident can be tricky, but following the right steps can help you clean it effectively and prevent your pet from marking the same spot again.Once urine dries, the smell often gets stronger. This happens because the water evaporates, leaving behind concentrated waste products, mainly uric acid and ammonia, that create that strong odor.
The first step is to absorb as much moisture as possible. If the accident is on a cloth surface, press firmly with paper towels or a cloth, avoid rubbing, as this can spread the mess further.
Next, saturate the affected area with an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for urine. Let it soak for the amount of time the product label recommends, usually around 10 to 15 minutes. The label may also mention if certain surfaces require additional treatment, like scrubbing the cleaner in.
After soaking, rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly. If needed, you can repeat these steps. Some enzyme cleaners work best if left to air dry, especially for stubborn odours. For a final touch, you can sprinkle baking soda over the cleaned area to help absorb any lingering smells.
Sometimes, it can be hard to find exactly where your pet peed. In those cases, using a black light or UV light can help reveal hidden spots so you can clean them properly.
Does your pet keep having accidents?
Repeated accidents can be a sign that something’s going on with your pet. It might be medical, like a urinary tract infection, so if your pet is peeing inside more than once or twice, a vet check is advised.
If nothing medical is found, there could be other reasons behind the behaviour. Stress, anxiety, changes in routine, or even litter box issues (for cats) can all play a role. Cats in particular are known to start urinating inside when they’re stressed.
If the accidents continue and no medical cause is found, it’s best to speak with a cat or dog behaviourist. They can help figure out what’s triggering the behaviour and guide you on how to manage or stop it.
Conclusion
Cleaning up pee accidents isn’t always as simple as it seems, but with the right approach, you can get rid of the smell and discourage repeat marking. If the accidents keep happening, it’s advised to look at why the accidents are happening, whether it’s a vet visit or getting help from a behaviourist.
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